Parkinsons

Parkinsons

Healthshare has recently formed a Parkinsons Support Group.

Our meetup group is a place of connection, compassion, and strength. Parkinson’s disease affects each person differently, but the challenges—both physical and emotional—are shared. We will provide expert-led discussions on topics such as treatment options, nutrition and therapies for managing daily life with Parkinson’s. We believe that by coming together, we can lighten the load, celebrate the small victories, and support each other through the tough times. Here, you’ll find a safe and welcoming space where you can share your story, ask questions, and find resources to help you cope and thrive.

Our group meets regularly on:

  • 1st Friday of every month
  • At the Lakehouse
  • 2pm

Meeting Topics:

Why Movement Matters with Parkinsons

Parkinson’s disease affects movement, balance, coordination, and muscle control. Over time, without movement, these functions can decline more rapidly.

Benefits of Physical Therapy and Movement:

1. Improves Mobility and Flexibility

  • Helps maintain range of motion in joints.
  • Reduces stiffness and rigidity.

2. Enhances Balance and Prevents Falls

  • PT teaches techniques to strengthen posture and gait.
  • Fall prevention is a critical safety goal.

3. Builds Strength and Endurance

  • Slows muscle weakening.
  • Supports daily functioning and independence.

4. Improves Walking (Gait)

  • Addresses shuffling, freezing, or slow steps.
  • Teaches strategies like cueing or rhythm techniques.

5. Boosts Mental Health

  • Regular movement reduces depression and anxiety.
  • Enhances confidence and sense of control.

6. Slows Disease Progression

  • Exercise may have neuroprotective effects (supports brain health).
  • Can improve how the brain uses dopamine.

Role of a Physical Therapist

A PT specializing in neurological conditions can:

  • Design a personalized exercise plan.
  • Use techniques like LSVT BIG (a Parkinson’s-specific program).
  • Work on transfers, posture, and mobility.

Types of Helpful Activities

  • Walking, biking, or treadmill work.
  • Tai Chi or yoga (for balance and flexibility).
  • Dancing (improves coordination and enjoyment).
  • Water aerobics (gentle on joints).

Key Takeaway

“Movement is medicine” for Parkinson’s. Early and consistent PT and exercise help people stay active, safer, and more independent — improving both quality of life and emotional well-being.

Why Speech Therapy is Important for Parkinson’s Patients

1. Improves Voice Volume and Clarity

  • Parkinson’s can cause soft, hoarse, or monotone speech (called hypophonia).
  • Speech therapy helps patients speak louder and more clearly, making everyday conversation easier.

2. Prevents Swallowing Problems (Dysphagia)

  • Many patients develop trouble swallowing, which increases the risk of choking and aspiration pneumonia.
  • SLPs teach safe swallowing strategies and exercises to strengthen throat muscles.

3. Boosts Facial Expression and Nonverbal Communication

  • Parkinson’s often leads to “masked face” (reduced facial movement).
  • Therapy can improve facial expressiveness, which helps with emotional connection and social interaction.

4. Supports Breathing and Voice Control

  • Breathing and speaking often become less coordinated.
  • Speech therapy includes breath support techniques for more sustained, controlled speech.

5. Improves Confidence and Social Engagement

  • Communication challenges can lead to isolation or embarrassment.
  • Strengthening speech and interaction skills helps people stay socially active and independent.

6. SLP-Led Programs Like LSVT LOUD® Are Proven Effective

  • Programs like LSVT LOUD focus on increasing vocal loudness and have long-term benefits.
  • These structured programs are evidence-based and tailored for Parkinson’s.

7. Therapy Should Start Early

Local Parkinson’s Support Group Connections

Adult Enrichment Centers – Fort Mill Renew Center

The group aims to foster resilience, provide practical information, and emphasize self-care for individuals with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. Meetings are open to the public.

Parkinson’s Exercise Program at YMCA of Upper Palmetto

The YMCA offers a specialized exercise program tailored for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The classes focus on movement, flexibility, strength, balance, dexterity, and cardio fitness, aiming to counteract movement challenges associated with Parkinson’s.​

Parkinson Association of the Carolinas

This organization supports nearly 80 volunteer-led support groups throughout North and South Carolina. They offer resources and a calendar of support group meetings.​

Parkinson’s Foundation – Find Your Chapter

The Parkinson’s Foundation provides a network of support groups, educational programs, and resources. You can find your nearest chapter for local events and support.​

Empowering tips for living well with Parkinson’s disease

1. You’re Not Alone

Parkinson’s affects nearly one million people in the U.S. Support groups, community programs, and online forums can help you connect, learn, and share.

2. Parkinson’s is Different for Everyone

Symptoms and progression vary. Your journey will be unique, so focus on your personal needs rather than comparisons.

3. Early Treatment Can Make a Difference

Starting medications and therapies early can help manage symptoms and improve your long-term outlook. A movement disorder specialist is ideal for guiding your care.

4. Exercise is One of the Best Treatments

Regular physical activity—especially walking, dancing, boxing, yoga, or tai chi—can improve strength, balance, and mood.

5. Healthy Eating Helps

A Mediterranean-style diet supports brain health. Some people benefit from managing protein intake to improve medication effectiveness.

6. Take Medications on a Schedule

Timing is key. Consistency helps reduce “off” times and keeps symptoms more stable. Use pill boxes, alarms, or apps to stay on track.

7. Mental and Emotional Health Matter

Depression, anxiety, and apathy are common—but treatable. Never hesitate to seek help from a counselor or doctor.

8. Non-Motor Symptoms are Normal

Fatigue, constipation, sleep issues, loss of smell, and bladder problems can all be part of Parkinson’s. Let your care team know—they can help.

9. Therapies Improve Quality of Life

Physical therapy can help with mobility. Occupational therapy improves daily activities. Speech therapy can enhance voice strength and swallowing.

10. Stay Informed and Engaged

Knowledge is power. Explore trusted sources like:

For Caregivers: A Few Extra Tips

Caring for you is essential to ensure your well-being and your ability to provide consistent quality care.  Here are some  Self To-Do’s

  1. Just Breathe. Find a private space and take 6 DEEP breaths, as frequently as needed.
  2. Acknowledge Your Role: Recognize the importance of your role as a caregiver and the sacrifices you make to care for loved ones.
  3. Boundary Balance  by setting and respecting  firm boundaries, you can provide effective care while safeguarding your own health and mental state.
  4. Encourage Self-Care:  You should prioritize your own physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy and make time for relaxation. Build it into your day, every day.
  5. Find a Sad Buddy. For days when the wave of sadness hits check your phone and call the friend that you can just puddle up with.!
  6. Find Respite: Find someone or a service to take over caregiving duties for a short period to give you a break. Respite care will help prevent burnout.
  7. Find Emotional Support: Find an ear that will listen without judgment. You need to vent, express your feelings, or share your challenges. An empathetic presence will make a significant difference in the long haul.
  8. Help with Tasks: Find assistance with tasks that may be overwhelming for you. A light goes out in a closet, run out of a food, ASK one of the folks that say “call if you need anything” This provides essential support to ensure your well-being and ability to provide quality care in the long haul.
  9. Connect Them to Resources: ASK. Find support groups, online forums, or counseling services specifically designed for your caregiver needs. These resources can provide you with insights, coping strategies, and a sense of community.

Interesting Article

A new study, published in Brain, focused on two key factors: brain inflammation (also called neuroinflammation) and the buildup of a protein called tau. Neuroinflammation is an immune response in the brain that is normally protective; however, when overactive, it can lead to the death of neurons that are essential for cognitive processes. Tau protein, when misfolded and accumulated, can prevent brain cells from functioning and lead to cell death.Both processes may ultimately lead to the cognitive decline characteristics of dementia. However, it was not known to what degree these factors were linked to dementia risk in people with early-stage Parkinson’s.Study Highlights:Overall, these findings suggest that brain inflammation is evident in the early stages of Parkinson’s and may be a key factor in determining who develops dementia.People with Parkinson’s scored lower on a cognitive test (ACE-III) compared to those without Parkinson’s. Brain inflammation was also linked to poorer test performance.Using specialized brain scans (PET scans) and markers, researchers examined whether participants showed signs of brain inflammation and tau protein accumulation.People at higher risk for dementia showed significantly more brain inflammation in several brain regions compared to those at lower risk and people without PD.  What do these findings mean to the people with PD right now?
This study further solidifies the link between the brain inflammation people with PD experience and the risk for dementia. Parkinson’s disease dementia symptoms include potential thinking, memory and behavior changes — these symptoms can be wide-ranging. If you notice symptoms, talk to your PD doctor about dementia concerns.